Introduction: Comparing Generator Fuel Types for Homeowners
Are you a homeowner considering backup power solutions for your home? Understanding the different types of generator fuel sources is crucial for making an informed decision that impacts your home’s reliability, cost, and safety during power outages. Not all generators are gas powered—there are several types, including natural gas, diesel, propane, solar, and battery-powered generators. Each type comes with its own set of benefits and considerations, and knowing the differences can help you choose the best generator for your needs.
This article will compare the most common generator fuel types, with a special focus on natural gas generators. We’ll explore how each type works, their pros and cons, and why understanding generator fuel types matters for your home’s safety, budget, and peace of mind.
Before we dive into the benefits of natural gas generators, let’s look at the different types of generator fuel sources available.
Are All Generators Gas Powered?
No, not all generators are gas powered. Generators can use gasoline, diesel, propane, natural gas, solar energy, or batteries as their power source. There are also battery power stations and electric generators that offer clean, quiet alternatives to gas-powered models.
Generator Type Definitions
- Gas-powered generator: Uses gasoline as fuel. These are common for portable and emergency use but require careful storage and have a shorter fuel shelf life.
- Diesel generator: Uses diesel fuel, known for its durability and efficiency, especially under heavy loads. Often used in commercial or industrial settings.
- Propane generator: Runs on propane, which does not degrade in storage and burns cleanly. Propane is stored in tanks and is a popular choice for backup power.
- Natural gas generator: Connects directly to your home’s natural gas line, providing a continuous fuel supply and cleaner emissions.
- Solar generator: Utilizes solar panels to capture energy and store it in batteries, providing silent, emission-free power. Ideal for those seeking renewable energy solutions.
- Battery power station: Large rechargeable batteries that can be charged via wall outlets or solar panels. They produce no toxic fumes and operate silently, making them safe for indoor use.
- Electric generator: Offers a cleaner, quieter, and more convenient alternative to gas-powered models and can be safely used indoors.
Generator Fuel Type and Efficiency
When choosing a generator, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is selecting the right generator fuel type. The fuel you choose not only affects how efficiently your generator produces electricity, but also impacts long-term costs, maintenance, and even your ability to keep the lights on during an extended power outage.
The most common generator fuel types are:
- Gasoline: Gasoline powered generators are widely available and typically have a lower initial cost. However, gasoline has a shorter shelf life, requires careful storage, and can be hard to find during natural disasters when gas stations may be closed. Gasoline generators also tend to produce more emissions and require more frequent maintenance, such as changing air filters and spark plugs.
- Diesel: Diesel generators are known for their durability and fuel efficiency, especially under heavy loads. Diesel fuel is more stable for long-term storage than gasoline, but it can still degrade over time. Diesel generators are often used for commercial or industrial applications due to their high power output, but they can be noisier and produce more harmful emissions compared to natural gas generators.
- Propane: Propane generators offer a clean-burning alternative with a long shelf life, making them a popular choice for backup power. Propane is stored in tanks, so you don’t have to rely on gas stations for refueling. However, propane can be more expensive and may require larger storage tanks for extended use.
- Natural Gas: Natural gas generators stand out for their convenience and efficiency. Connected directly to your home’s gas line, they provide a continuous fuel supply without the need for on-site storage. Natural gas burns cleaner than gasoline or diesel, resulting in fewer emissions and less frequent maintenance. Plus, you won’t have to worry about fuel going bad or running out during a prolonged outage.
- Solar: Solar generators use solar panels to charge internal batteries, providing silent, emission-free power. They are ideal for those seeking renewable energy solutions and can be used indoors.
- Battery Power Stations: These are large rechargeable batteries that can be charged via wall outlets or solar panels. They produce no toxic fumes and operate silently, making them safe for indoor use.
When it comes to efficiency, natural gas generators are a top choice for homeowners seeking reliable, low-maintenance backup power. They consume less fuel per kilowatt-hour of electricity generated compared to many gasoline or diesel models, and their steady fuel supply means you can run essential appliances, medical devices, and even air conditioning for as long as needed.
Ultimately, the best generator fuel type for you depends on your specific needs, local fuel availability, and how you plan to use your generator. If you want a hassle-free, efficient, and environmentally friendly solution, natural gas generators are hard to beat. They offer a significant advantage in terms of fuel efficiency, ease of use, and peace of mind—especially when the unexpected happens.
Now that you know the main fuel options, let’s explore why natural gas generators stand out.
Benefits of Natural Gas Generators
The image that usually comes to mind when thinking of a generator is a bulky, noisy machine consuming gallons of gasoline. But did you know that natural gas generators offer a cleaner, more cost-effective alternative? Not only are they more economical due to lower fuel costs, but they also ensure a reliable fuel supply, keeping your essential appliances running smoothly even during emergencies.
Unlike a gasoline generator, which relies on a fuel tank to store gasoline and uses combustion to produce electricity by converting mechanical energy into electrical energy, natural gas generators produce electricity using a cleaner fuel source. Both types of generators provide backup power, but natural gas models offer environmental and safety advantages over traditional gasoline-powered units.
Environmental Impact
Unlike traditional gasoline or diesel generators, natural gas generators are much kinder to the environment. Gasoline and diesel generators produce emissions that can be harmful, especially if used in enclosed spaces. Improper use of gas generators in enclosed spaces can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning, making safety precautions essential. Primarily composed of methane, natural gas emits fewer pollutants than other fossil fuels. This cleaner burning process makes them a more environmentally friendly choice for power generation, perfect for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint.
Cost Savings
Looking to save some money without sacrificing power? Natural gas generators have you covered. Their lower operating costs and reduced fuel delivery expenses make them a budget-friendly choice, especially when considering the efficiency of NG as a fuel source.
As an example, operating a Generac natural gas generator could cost you around $20-$40 per day at 50% load during a power outage, and a mere $5 to $10 per month in exercise mode. Fuel consumption varies depending on the electrical load; running a generator at half load can optimize efficiency and reduce both fuel consumption and overall costs.
Fuel Supply Reliability
The utility of a generator becomes questionable if it exhausts fuel precisely when you need it the most. With a natural gas generator, you never have to worry about running out of fuel. These generators can be directly linked to natural gas pipelines, ensuring a steady and reliable fuel supply, even during prolonged power outages.
Types of Natural Gas Generators
Natural gas generators, similar to their gasoline equivalents, are available in a variety of types to meet diverse power requirements. Some models support multiple fuel types, including bi fuel and tri fuel generators, offering added versatility by allowing operation on gasoline, natural gas, or propane. Whether you’re looking for a portable generator for your on-the-move electricity needs or a home standby model for seamless backup power, there’s a natural gas generator out there that’s perfect for you. Portable gas generators are popular for their mobility and ease of use, while electric generators provide a quiet, emission-free alternative for indoor, camping, or off-grid applications.
Portable Natural Gas Generators
Portable natural gas generators are the perfect companions for your camping trips or outdoor events. They provide power in diverse locations and come in various wattages and engine types to cater to different energy needs.
For instance, the Generac GP6500 CoSense Portable Generator stands out with its substantial starting capacity and integrated safety mechanisms, making it ideal for handling large appliance startup loads.
Inverter Natural Gas Generators
Inverter natural gas generators are an excellent option for individuals in search of a quieter, more fuel-efficient solution. These generators are designed for quiet operation, making them especially beneficial for residential and sensitive environments. Inverter generators are also engineered to provide stable voltage regulation and high power quality, which protects sensitive electronics such as laptops and medical devices from electrical damage.
One notable example is the Generac iQ3500, a 3500-watt inverter generator featuring an electric start and a durable metal enclosure.
Home Standby Natural Gas Generators
For seamless backup power throughout your home, a home standby natural gas generator is unmatched. These generators are semi-permanent installations that automatically kick in during a power outage, ensuring continuity and convenience. These systems are often referred to as whole house generators because they can power an entire home. A transfer switch is used to safely connect the generator to your home’s electrical system, ensuring the power generated is delivered where it’s needed without backfeeding.
[The Generac 7043 Home Standby Generator](https://www.wingatepower.com/generac-home-generators/), for instance, can power an entire house and even offers remote monitoring via smartphone.
If seamless backup power is what you’re after, home standby natural gas generators are your best bet. These generators offer:
- Automatic activation during a power outage
- Continuity and convenience
- Direct connection to your home’s power system via a transfer switch
- Ability to power essential circuits and, in many cases, the entire home depending on the power generated
With a home standby natural gas generator, you never have to worry about a power outage again, avoiding the mistake of being unprepared.
Dual-Fuel Capability: Generac Generators
The dual-fuel capability of Generac generators is one of their significant benefits. This means they can run on both natural gas and liquid propane, giving you the flexibility to switch between fuel types based on availability, cost, and personal preference.
This unique feature ensures that you always have a reliable power source, no matter what.
Propane vs. Natural Gas
Both propane and natural gas have their merits when making a choice between the two. Propane is more energy-dense and cleaner-burning, making it a potent power source that contributes to less pollution. Propane also has a long shelf life; unlike gasoline, propane does not degrade over time, making it ideal for emergency backup.
On the other hand, natural gas is cheaper and offers more convenience, especially if you have an existing and reliable supply line to your property.
Converting Generac Generators
The ability of Generac generators to switch to various fuel sources is among their most advantageous features. With a conversion kit, Generac generators that run on propane can be converted to run on natural gas.
This capability offers flexibility and ensures continuous power supply by utilising the most available fuel during different situations, providing easy access to energy resources.
Fuel Storage Considerations
Safety must be your foremost concern when storing fuel for your generator. Here are some guidelines to follow:
- Fuel for natural gas generators must be stored externally to living spaces
- It should be stored in a locked and secure area
- It should be kept separate from fuel-burning appliances
- Adhering to local laws is crucial, as there may be restrictions on the amount of fuel that can be stored and where it can be kept.
If you store gasoline for a backup generator, using a fuel stabilizer is recommended to prevent fuel degradation and ensure reliable operation.
Professional Installation for Optimal Performance
Procuring a generator is merely half the task; its proper installation is of equal importance. A professional installation not only guarantees safe operation but also ensures compliance with local codes, enhancing the system’s safety and functionality. Plus, it maintains the validity of the manufacturer’s warranties, which can be crucial for future maintenance or warranty claims.
Selecting the Right Installer
Selecting the appropriate installer for your generator is a decision that requires careful consideration. It’s crucial to select an experienced and licensed contractor who can handle both gas plumbing and electrical work. Verifying that the contractor is insured and knowledgeable about permit requirements can also save you a lot of headaches down the line.
Installation Process
The installation of a natural gas generator involves several steps:
- Site preparation
- Adherence to local codes
- Gas line connection
- Integration with your home’s electrical systems
This process can be complex, so it’s important to hire a professional installer. Many installers also offer maintenance services to ensure your generator remains in optimal condition.
Maintenance Recommendations
Similar to any machine, your generator requires regular maintenance to maintain optimum condition. This includes:
- Weekly alarm and functionality checks
- Monthly inspections of fluid levels
- Running the generator periodically to prevent fuel from going stale and ensure reliable operation
- Bi-annual comprehensive assessments
- Annual servicing for filter replacements and system flushes.
Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity and safe operation of your generator.
Assessing Your Power Needs
Prior to selecting the suitable generator, an assessment of your power requirements is necessary. This involves calculating the total load from all the devices you want to power and making sure it doesn’t exceed the generator’s output. Understanding your home’s electrical load is essential to selecting a generator that can handle the combined power demand of your appliances. It also involves deciding which circuits in your home are essential and need to be powered during an outage.
Calculating Power Consumption
To calculate power consumption, you need to:
- Total the wattage of all the appliances and devices you aim to power.
- Take into account the specific wattage requirements of common household appliances.
- Convert the total wattage figure to kilowatts. This represents the total electrical energy your generator will need to supply during an outage.
- Add a 20% safety margin to find the minimum generator capacity needed for your home.
FREE SHORTCUT! If you’d like to skip the math, have us come out for a FREE In-Home Consultatoin! You’ll find out the exact generator that best fits your needs and have a 100% accurate price of your entire project.
Essential vs. Non-Essential Appliances
All appliances in your home are not of equal importance. Some are essential and need to be powered during an outage, while others are not. When determining the size of a generator, you should first secure power for essential circuits in your home. You may then decide to include additional circuits for conveniences according to personal preference.
Generator Sizing Tools
If these calculations appear to be somewhat overwhelming, fret not! There are generator sizing tools available that can simplify the process. You simply input your household appliances and their respective wattages, and the tool will give you a total power requirement calculation. Just remember to choose a generator with a wattage output that exceeds the maximum expected load for reliability.
You can also have us come out and do all of the sizing for you during a FREE In-Home Consultation.
Top Brands Offering Natural Gas Generators
Having understood your power needs and the advantages of natural gas generators, let’s explore the leading brands in the market. Some of the top brands include:
- Generac (We are authorized dealers of Generac and with 30+ years of experience, we highly recommend Generac for most applications)
- Briggs & Stratton
- Honda
These brands have found a significant presence in the market and are known for their reliability and range of products.
Generac
Generac, a reputed name in the generator industry, is famous for its range of natural gas home generators. Whether you’re looking for a portable model or a home standby unit, Generac has you covered. Plus, their generators come with a sturdy aluminum shell and are backed by a three-year warranty for peace of mind. Hands down, Generac’s fleet of generators, their quality and their dedication to the continual support of their products make them the top choice for homeowners and businesses. That’s also the reason we choose to sell and install their generators.
Briggs & Stratton
Briggs & Stratton is another notable brand. They offer a variety of home generators suitable for different power needs. They offer financing options, allowing you to manage the investment through monthly payment plans.
Honda
Additionally, Honda provides a range of natural gas generators for diverse home applications. Their generators feature advanced inverter technology, offering fuel-efficient, quiet, and clean power. Plus, their CO-MINDER™ system detects carbon monoxide levels and automatically shuts down the generator if high levels are reached, ensuring your safety.
Preparing for Emergencies: Backup Power Plans
Considering the unpredictability of emergencies and power outages, having a backup power plan in place is critical. Whether it’s a natural disaster or a simple power outage, a reliable power supply can make a world of difference, keeping your home safe and your essential functions running uninterrupted. Generators are commonly used to provide backup electricity when grid power is unavailable due to outages or emergencies.
Emergency Power Strategies
The inclusion of a backup generator is pivotal in any emergency power strategy. But there’s more to it than that. You also need to know how to conserve power during an outage, such as by staying in one room and insulating your windows and doors. And of course, natural gas generators play a vital role in these strategies by ensuring a stable power supply when renewable sources are not available. Solar panels can also be integrated into emergency power strategies, providing renewable energy backup and increasing independence from traditional fuel sources.
Safety Tips for Generator Use
Prioritising safety is essential when operating generators. Here are some important safety tips to keep in mind:
- Use your generator outside and at least 20 feet from your home.
- Install carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home.
- Avoid backfeeding by plugging the generator directly into a wall outlet.
These safety tips can help prevent accidents and ensure your generator operates optimally during power outages.
Storing Fuel and Maintaining Your Generator
To ensure optimal performance, it’s critical to store fuel properly and maintain your generator regularly. Fuel for natural gas generators must be stored externally to living spaces and separate from fuel-burning appliances.
On the maintenance front, regular checks and inspections are necessary to ensure the longevity and safe operation of your generator.
Benefits of Natural Gas Generators (Recap)
For a quick recap, let’s briefly revisit the advantages of natural gas generators:
- Efficiency: Natural gas generators are highly efficient, consuming less fuel per kilowatt-hour of electricity generated.
- Cost-effectiveness: They have lower operating costs than diesel generators and require less frequent refueling, reducing your fuel delivery expenses.
- Environmentally friendly: Natural gas generators produce cleaner emissions than other types of generators, helping you reduce your carbon footprint.
- Reliable fuel supply: They can be linked directly to natural gas pipelines, ensuring a consistent fuel supply even during prolonged power outages.
So you’ll never have to worry about running out of power in an emergency.
The Perfect Generator For You
By this point, you should have a comprehensive understanding of:
- the advantages of natural gas generators
- the different varieties of natural gas generators
- popular brands of natural gas generators
- how to evaluate your power needs
If you’re still uncertain about which generator to purchase, don’t fret! Wingate Power offers free in-home consultations to answer all your queries and assist you in finding the perfect generator for your needs.
Summary
Key Points Recap
- Not all generators are gas powered—options include gasoline, diesel, propane, natural gas, solar, and battery-powered models.
- Understanding generator fuel types is essential for reliability, cost, and safety.
- Natural gas generators offer a reliable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly power solution.
- There are various types of natural gas generators, including portable, inverter, and home standby models.
- Assessing your power needs and professional installation are key to optimal performance.
Next Steps
If you’re ready to find out which generator is best for you, get a FREE In-Home Consultation! There’s no obligation or pressure to purchase your generator from us and by the end of the visit, you’ll know the exact generator that best suits your needs and have the accurate price for your project.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Generac generators that run on propane also run on natural gas?
Yes, Generac generators that run on propane can be converted to run on natural gas with a conversion kit. This can offer added flexibility in fuel options.
How long will a Generac generator run on propane?
A Generac generator will run for approximately 2 to 3 hours on a gallon of propane.
What size propane tank is recommended for a whole house Generac generator?
Generac recommends at least a 250 gallon propane tank for a whole house generator. This size ensures a sufficient supply during power outages.
How much does it cost to run a Generac generator for 24 hours?
It can cost around $20-$40 per day to run a Generac generator for 24 hours at around 50% load on gas. So, be prepared for that expense if you’re planning for a power outage.
What are the two fuel options for Generac home generators?
The two fuel options for Generac home generators are propane and natural gas. Both are commonly used and widely available.
